LITTLE OFFICE OF THE

BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

ACCORDING TO THE DOMINICAN RITE

In the Middle ages it was the practice to recite each part at its own hour.

PRAYER BEFORE THE OFFICE

Open, O Lord, my mouth to bless Thy Holy Name: cleanse also my heart from all vain, perverse and distracting thoughts; enlighten my understanding, inflame my will , that I may worthily, attentively, and devoutly recite this Office, and deserve to be heard in the presence of Thy divine Majesty. Through Christ, our Lord.

R: Amen.

O Lord, in union with that divine intention wherewith Thou didst offer praises on earth to God. I offer these Hours to Thee.

Matins

The first Hour of the Office is called Matins, or Morning Offices, because it seems to be the continuation of the Vigils or Night Watches of the primitive Christians, who were accustomed to spend the time from midnight till dawn in prayers and meditations as a preparation for the great feasts. A suitable intention for the recitation of Matins is preparation for the coming of Our Lord, whether in Holy Communion on the following day, or in His judgment at the hour death.
 

V: Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
V: O Lord, open my lips.
R: And my mouth shall announce thy praise.
V: Incline unto my aid O God.
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.
From Septuagesima until Easter instead of Alleluia is said : Praise be thee, O Lord, King of everlasting Glory

Invitatory:
Our King, a Virgin's Son: * Come, let us adore.
In the time of Easter is added Alleluia, and in like manner in the end of the Antiphons, Versicles, and Responses.
 

Psalm [94]:
An invitation to adore and serve God and to hear his voice
Come let us praise the Lord with joy: let us joyfully sing to God our Saviour: let us approach to his presence in confession, and in Psalms let us make joy unto him.
R. Our King, a Virgin's Son: * Come, let us adore.
V. For God is a great Lord, and a great King above all Gods: because our Lord repelleth not his people: for that in his hand are all the bounds of the earth, and he beholdeth the heights of the mountains.
R.  Come, let us adore.
V. For the sea is his, and he made it: and his hands founded the dry land: come let us adore, and fall down before God: let us weep before our Lord, that made us: because he is the Lord our God: we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
R. Our King, a Virgin's Son: * Come, let us adore.
V. Today if ye shall hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation according to the day of temptation in the wilderness: where your fathers tempted me: proved, and saw my works.
R.  Come, let us adore.
V. Forty years was I nigh unto this generation: and said, they always err in heart: and they have not known my ways, to whom I swear in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest.
R. Our King, a Virgin's Son: * Come, let us adore.
V. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen.
R.  Come, let us adore.
Our King, a Virgin's Son: * Come, let us adore.

Hymn:,
Whom earth, and sea, and sky proclaim,
The ruler of the triple frame,
He unto Whom their praises,
Within the womb of Mary lies.

Her womb, the seat of every grace,
Is now the Lord's abiding place, -
That Lord's to Whom the sun by day,
The moon by night, their service pay.

O Happy Mother that thou art,
Close underneath thy beating heart,
Lies thy Creator-God, who plann'd,
The world He holds within His hand.

Blest by herald angel's tongue,
O'er thee God's shadowing Spirit hung,
And fill'd thy womb which issued forth,
The long-desir'd of all the earth.

O Mary, Mother of all grace,
Mother of Mercy to our race,
Protect us now from Satan's power,
And own us at life's closing hour.

All glory be Thee, O Lord,
The Virgin's son, by all ador'd,
And equal praise forever greet,
The Father and the Paraclete. Amen.

Psalm [8]:
God is wonderful in His works: especially in mankind, singularly exalted by the Incarnation of Christ

O Lord our Governor, * how excellent is thy Name in all the world!
2  For thou hast set thy glory * above the heavens.
3  Out of the mouth of very babes and sucklings hast thou perfected praise, because of thine enemies, * that thou mightiest destroy the enemy and the avenger.
4  For I will consider thy heavens, even the works of thy fingers; * the moon and the stars which thou hast ordained;
5  What is man, that thou art mindful of him? * and the son of man, that thou visitest him?
6  Thou madest him lower than the Angels, thou hast crowned him with glory and worship : * thou makest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands.
7  Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet : * all sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field;
8  The fowls of the air, and the fishes of the sea; * and whatsoever walketh through the paths of the seas.
9  O Lord our Governor, * how excellent is thy Name in all the world!

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Psalm [18]:
The works of God show forth His glory: His law is to be greatly esteemed and loved

The heavens declare the glory of God; * and the firmament sheweth his handy-work.
2  Day to day uttereth speech; * and night to night sheweth knowledge.
3  There is neither speech nor language; * where their voices are not heard.
4  Their sound is gone out into all lands; * and their words into the ends of the world.
5  In the sun hath he set his tabernacle; * and he, as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber,
6  Hath rejoiced as a giant to run his course, * his going forth is from the uttermost part of the heaven.
7  And his circuit even unto the end thereof; * and there is no one that can hide himself from his heat.
8  The law of the Lord is an undefiled law, converting the soul; * the testimony of the Lord is sure, and giveth wisdom unto the simple.
9  The statutes of the Lord are right, and rejoice the heart; * the commandment of the Lord is pure, and giveth light unto the eyes.
10  The fear of the Lord is holy, and endureth for ever; * the judgments of the Lord are true, justified in themselves.
11  More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much precious stone; * sweeter also than honey, and the honeycomb.
12  For thy servant keepeth them; * and in keeping of them there is great reward.
13  Who can tell how oft he offendeth? O cleanse thou me from my secret faults : * save thy servant also from the sins of others.
14  If they get not the dominion over me, so shall I be undefiled, * and innocent from the great offence.
15  And the words of my mouth shall be such as may please, * and the meditation of my heart be always in thy sight.
16  O Lord, my strength * and my redeemer.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Psalm [23]:
Who are they that shall ascend into heaven: Christ's triumphant ascension thither.

The earth is the Lord's, and all the fullness thereof; * the compass of the world, and they that dwell therein.
2  For he hath founded it upon the seas, * and established it upon the rivers.
3  Who shall ascend into the mountain of the Lord? * or who shall stand in his holy place?
4  Even he that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; * and that hath not lift up his soul unto vanity, nor deceitfully sworn to his neighbour.
5  He shall receive a blessing from the Lord, * and mercy from God his savior.
6  This is the generation of them that seek him; * even of them that seek the face of the God of Jacob.
7  Lift up your gates, O ye princes; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting gates; * and the King of glory shall come in.
8  Who is this King of glory? * It is the Lord strong and mighty, even the Lord mighty in battle.
9  Lift up your gates, O ye princes; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting gates; * and the King of glory shall come in.
10  Who is this King of glory? * Even the Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Ant: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb.

V: Grace is poured forth on thy lips.

R: Therefore God hath blessed thee forever.

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.

V: And lead us not into temptation.

R: But deliver us from evil. Amen

.

V: Pray, Father, give the blessing. or We pray thee, vouchsafe us a blessing.

Blessing

May the tender Virgin of virgins intercede for us with the Lord.

R: Amen.

The first lesson:
O Holy Mary, Virgin of virgins, Mother and daughter of the King of Kings! bestow upon us thy consolation, that through thee we may deserve the reward of the heavenly kingdom, and reign with the elect of God unto all eternity. But thou, O Lord, have mercy on us.

R: Thanks be to God.

R: O holy and immaculate Virginity, with what praises to extol thee, I know not for thou gavest from thy bosom Him Whom the heavens could not contain.

V: Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.

R: For thou gavest from thy bosom Him, Whom the heavens could not contain.

V: Pray, Father, give the blessing. or We pray thee, vouchsafe us a blessing.

Blessing

May the holy Mother of God be our helper.

R: Amen.

The second lesson:
O Holy Mary, most compassionate of all the compassionate, and holiest of all the holy, make intercession for us. Through thee, O Virgin, may He receive our prayers, Who, born for us of thee, reigneth above the skies; that so, by His loving-kindness, our sins may be cleansed away. But Thou, O Lord, have mercy on us.

R: Thanks be to God.

R: Blessed art thou, O Virgin Mary, who didst bear the Lord, the Creator of the world. Thou gavest birth unto Him Who made thee, and remainest a virgin evermore.

V: Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Thou gavest birth unto Him Who made thee, and remainest a virgin evermore.

V: Pray, Father, give the blessing. or We pray thee, vouchsafe us a blessing.

Blessing

May the Virgin Mary, with her loving Child, bless us.

R: Amen.

The third lesson:
O holy Mother of God, who didst worthily deserve to conceive Him Whom the whole world cannot contain, cleanse away our sins by thy loving intercession that we who have been redeemed may through thee be able to ascend to the seat of perpetual glory, where, with Him, thy Son, thou reignest forever. But Thou, O Lord, have mercy on us

R: Thanks be to God.

R: Happy thou, O sacred Virgin Mary, and most worthy of all praise, for out of thee arose the Sun of Justice, Christ our God.

V: Pray for the people, plead for the clergy, make intercession for the devout female sex; let all feel thy helping power who celebrate thy blessed memory.

R: For out of thee arose the Sun of Justice, Christ our God.

V: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: 
R: Christ our God.

R: Happy thou, O sacred Virgin Mary, and most worthy of all praise, for out of thee arose the Sun of Justice, Christ our God.

On those Sunday and feast days when the Te Deum is omitted the following response, provide directly below, is added; The canticle, Te Deum is omitted whenever it is not said in the Divine Office. The Te Deum is not said on the Sundays of Advent and the Sundays from Septuagesima until Easter ( except on the Feast of St. Joseph and the Annunciation), Christmas Eve (Dec. 24th), Holy Innocents Day (Dec. 28th)- except when it falls on Sunday, simple feast from Septuagesima to Easter and, outside Septuagesima on feast less than simple, Ash Wednesday, All Hoy Week, the Vigil of Pentecost and All Souls day (Nov.2)

R. Yea, happy art thou , O Holy Mother of God, and most worthy of all praise: for out of thee arose the Sun of Justice, even Christ our Lord.

STAND

TE DEUM
CALLED THE CANTICLE OF STS. AMBROSE AND AUGUSTINE

  We praise thee, O God, * we acknowledge thee to be the Lord.
  All the earth doth worship thee, * the Father everlasting.
  To thee all Angels cry aloud, * the Heavens, and all the Powers therein.
  To thee Cherubim and Seraphim * continually do cry.
During the following Tersanctus all make a profound reverence:
  Holy, Holy, Holy, * Lord God of Sabaoth;
  Heaven and earth are full * of the Majesty of thy glory.
  The glorious company of the Apostles * praise thee.
  The goodly fellowship of the Prophets * praise thee.
  The noble army of Martyrs * praise thee.
  The holy Church throughout all the world * doth acknowledge thee;
  The Father, * of an infinite Majesty.
  Thine honorable, true, * and only Son;
  Also the Holy Ghost, * the Comforter.
  Thou art the King of Glory, * O Christ.
  Thou art the everlasting * Son of the Father.
During the following verse all make a profound reverence:
  When thou tookest upon thee to deliver man, * thou didst not abhor the Virgin's womb.
  When thou hadst overcome the sharpness of death, * thou didst open the Kingdom of Heaven to all believers.
  Thou sittest at the right hand of God, * in the glory of the Father.
  We believe that thou shalt come * to be our Judge.
Here all genuflect.
  We therefore pray thee, help thy servants, * whom thou hast redeemed with thy precious Blood.
Here all rise.
  Make them to be numbered with thy Saints, * in glory everlasting.
  O Lord, save thy people, * and bless thine heritage.
  Govern them, * and lift them up for ever.
  Day by day * we magnify thee;
During the following verse by local custom a profound reverence is made:
  And we worship thy Name * ever, world without end.
  Vouchsafe, O Lord, to keep us * this day without sin.
  O Lord, have mercy upon us, * have mercy upon us.
  O Lord, let thy mercy lighten upon us, * as our trust is in thee.
  O Lord, in thee have I trusted, * let me never be confounded.
V.  Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God.
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

If Lauds are not to follow immediately say:

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.

R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord God, that we, Thy servants, may enjoy continual health of mind and body; and that, through the glorious intercession of blessed Mary, ever virgin, we may be delivered from present sorrow, and enjoy eternal happiness. Through Christ our Lord.

Lauds

In the early Christian Night Watches, the meditations and readings that had lasted from midnight gave place, at the break of the dawn of the expected feast-day, to songs of praise and gladness, which continued till sunrise; and it is these Morning Praises that gave rise to the present Hour of Lauds. The chief thought of Lauds, then is that of praise and thanksgiving offered to God at the opening of a new day.
 

V: Incline unto my aid O God.
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.

From Septuagesima until Easter instead of Alleluia is said : Praise be thee, O Lord, King of everlasting Glory

Psalm 92. 
The glory and stability of the kingdom: that is, of the Church of Christ

The Lord hath reigned, and hath put on glorious apparel; * the Lord hath put on his apparel, and girded himself with strength.
2  For he hath established the round world, * that it cannot be moved.
3  Thy throne is prepared from of old : * thou art from everlasting.
4  The floods have lift up, O Lord, * yea, the floods have lift up their voice.
5  The floods have lift up their waves, * with the noise of many waters.
6  The waves of the sea are mighty, * glorious is the Lord, who dwelleth on high.
7  Thy testimonies are become exceeding credible: * holiness becometh thine house, O Lord, unto length of days.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Psalm 99.
All are invited to rejoice in God, the Creator of all

O be joyful in the Lord, all ye lands: * serve the Lord with gladness.
2  Come before his presence * with exceeding great joy.
3  Know ye that the Lord he is God; * it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves.
4  We are his people, and the sheep of his pasture : * O go your way into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise; be ye thankful unto him.
5  Give praises unto his Name: for the Lord is gracious, his mercy is everlasting; * and his truth endureth from generation to generation.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Psalm 62.  
The prophet aspireth after God

O God, thou art my God; * to thee do I watch at break of day.
2  My soul hath thirsted for thee, * my flesh also in many different ways.
3  In a barren and dry land where no water is: * so in the sanctuary have I come before thee, that I might behold thy power and thy glory.
4  For thy mercy is better than the life itself : * my lips shall praise thee.
5  Thus will I bless thee as long as I live : * and I will lift up my hands in thy Name.
6  My soul shall be filled as with marrow and fatness, * and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips.
7  If I have remembered thee in my bed, I will think upon thee in the morning : * because thou hast been my helper.
8  And under the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice, my soul hath hung upon thee; * thy right hand hath upholden me.
9  But they have sought my soul in vain, they shall go down into the nether parts of the earth : * they shall be delivered into the hands of the sword, they shall be a portion for foxes.
10  But the king shall rejoice in God; all they also that swear by him shall be commended; * for the mouth of them that speak wicked things shall be stopped.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

CANTICLE OF THE THREE YOUTHS
  Dan. 3, 56,57-88

1   O all ye Works of the Lord, bless ye the Lord : * praise him, and magnify him for ever.
2  O ye Angels of the Lord, bless ye the Lord : * O ye Heavens, bless ye the Lord.
3  O ye Waters that be above the Firmament, bless ye the Lord: * O all ye Powers of the Lord, bless ye the Lord.
4  O ye Sun and Moon, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Stars of Heaven, bless ye the Lord.
5  O ye Showers and Dew, bless ye the Lord: * O ye winds of God, bless ye the Lord.
6  O ye Fire and Heat, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Winter and Summer, bless ye the Lord.
7  O ye Dews and Frosts, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Frost and Cold, bless ye the Lord.
8  O ye Ice and Snow, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Nights and Days, bless ye the Lord.
9  O ye Light and Darkness, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Lightnings and Clouds, bless ye the Lord.
10  O let the Earth bless the Lord; * yea, let it praise him, and magnify him for ever.
11  O ye Mountains and Hills, bless ye the Lord: * O all ye Green Things upon the earth, bless ye the Lord. 
12  O ye Wells, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Seas and Floods, bless ye the Lord.
13  O ye Whales, and all that move in the waters, bless ye the Lord: * O all ye Fowls of the Air, bless ye the Lord.
14  O all ye Beasts and Cattle, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Children of Men, bless ye the Lord.
15  O let Israël bless the Lord; * praise him, and magnify him for ever.
16  O ye Priests of the Lord, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Servants of the Lord, bless ye the Lord.
17  O ye Spirits and Souls of the Righteous, bless ye the Lord: * O ye holy and humble Men of heart, bless ye the Lord.
18  O Ananias, Azarias, and Misael, bless ye the Lord: praise him and magnify him for ever:
(During the following verse, all bow:)
19  Let us bless the Father and the Son, with the Holy Ghost; * let us praise him and magnify him for ever.
20  Blessed art thou, O Lord, in the firmament of heaven; * and to be praised and exalted above all for ever.
Here is not said Amen or Glory be.

Psalm 148.  
All creatures are invited to praise their creator

O praise ye the Lord from the heavens: * praise ye him in the height.
2  Praise him, all ye Angels of his: * praise him, all his host.
3  Praise ye him, O sun and moon: * praise him, all ye stars and light.
4  Praise him, all ye heavens of heavens, * and ye waters that are above the heavens, praise the Name of the Lord.
5  For he spake the word, and they were made; * he commanded, and they were created.
6  He hath established them for ever, yea, unto ages of ages : * he hath set forth a law, and it shall not pass away.
7  Praise the Lord from the earth, * ye dragons and all deeps;
8  Fire and hail, snow and ice, wind and storm, * fulfilling his word;
9  Mountains and all hills; * fruitful trees and all cedars;
10  Beasts and all cattle; * creeping things and flying fowls;
11  Kings of the earth, and all people; * princes, and all judges of the world;
12  Young men and maidens, old men and children, praise the Name of the Lord: * for his Name only is exalted.
13  His praise is above heaven and earth : * and he shall exalt the horn of his people.
14  A hymn unto all his saints : * even unto the children of Israel, a people that draw nigh unto him.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Ant. After childbirth thou didst still remain a virgin undefiled: Mother of God, intercede for us.

Little Chapter
ECCL. 24

Like a vine, I gave forth an odor of sweetness:
and my flowers are the fruits of honor and riches.

R: Thanks be to God.

Hymn:,
O glorious Lady, throned in light,
Sublime above the stary height,
Thine arms thy great Creator pressed,
A suckling at thy sacred breast.

Through the dear Blossom of thy womb,
Thou changest hapless Eva's doom:
Through thee to contrite souls is given
An opening to their home in heaven

Thou art the great King's portal bright,
With pearls and stones of living light,
Come then, ye ransomed nations, sing
The life divine 'twas hers to bring.

O Mary, Mother of all grace,
Mother of Mercy to our race,
Protect us now from Satan's power,
And own us at life's closing hour.

All glory be Thee, O Lord,
The Virgin's son, by all ador'd,
And equal praise forever greet,
The Father and the Paraclete. Amen.

V: God hath chosen her, and preferred her.

R: And He maketh her dwell in His tabernacle.

THE CANTICLE OF ZACHARY

Luke 1. 68-79

1   Blessed † be the Lord God of Israel; * for he hath visited and redeemed his people ;
2  And hath raised up a mighty salvation for us, * in the house of his servant David ;
3  As he spake by the mouth of his holy Prophets, * which have been since the world began ;
4  That we should be saved from our enemies, * and from the hand of all that hate us.
5  To perform the mercy promised to our forefathers, * and to remember his holy Covenant ;
6  To perform the oath which he swore to our forefather Abraham, * that he would give us ;
7  That we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies * might serve him without fear ;
8  In holiness and righteousness before him, * all the days of our life.
9  And thou, child, shalt be called the Prophet of the Highest: * for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways ;
10  To give knowledge of salvation unto his people * for the remission of their sins,
11  Through the tender mercy of our God; * whereby the Day-Spring from on high hath visited us ;
12  To give light to them that sit in darkness, and in the shadow of death, * and to guide our feet into the way of peace.
13  Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.
14  As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.
 

The Anthems and prayers following vary according to the season

During Advent
Ant. The Holy Ghost shall come down upon thee, O Mary: fear not, thou shalt bear within thy womb the Son of God, alleluia

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.

R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

Let us pray
O God, Who wast please that, at the message of an angel, Thy Word should take flesh from the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary, grant that we, Thy suppliants, who truly believe her to be the Mother of God, may be helped by her intercession with Thee. Through the same Christ our Lord.

R: Amen.

From Christmas to the Purification
Ant. A Women in childbirth brought forth a King Whose name is eternal; and, possessing a mother's joy with a virgin's honor, her like hath not appeared before nor since.

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.

R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

Let us pray
O God, Who through the fruitful virginity of blessed Mary, hast given to mankind the reward of eternal salvation, grant, we beseech Thee that we may feel the intercession she makes for us, through whom we have been made worthy the Author of Life ,Christ our Lord.

R: Amen.

From the Purification to Easter Sunday -Same as Trinity Sunday to Advent

During Paschal Time
Ant. O blessed Mary, Mother of God, perpetual virgin, temple of the Lord, sanctuary of the Holy Ghost, thou alone without equal wast pleasing to our Lord Jesus Christ: pray for the people, plead for the clergy, make intercession for the devout female sex. Alleluia, Alleluia.

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.

R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord God, that we, Thy servants, may enjoy continual health of mind and body; and that, through the glorious intercession of blessed Mary, ever virgin, we may be delivered from present sorrow, and enjoy eternal happiness. Through Christ our Lord.

R: Amen.

From Trinity Sunday to Advent
Ant. O glorious Mother of God, Mary, ever virgin, who alone wast found worthy to bear the Lord of all, and though a virgin, to nurse the King of angels, be graciously mindful of us, we beseech thee, and pray to Christ for us, that we, being upheld by thy care, may deserve to attain to heavenly kingdoms.

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.

R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

Let us pray
Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord God, that we, Thy servants, may enjoy continual health of mind and body; and that, through the intercession of blessed Mary, ever virgin, we may be delivered from present sorrow, and enjoy eternal happiness. Through Christ our Lord

R: Amen.

Ant. Blessed be the Redeemer of all, Who, in providing for the salvation of men, gave Saint Dominic to the world.
 

V: The law of his God is in his heart.

R: And his steps shall not fail.

Let us pray
O God, Who didst vouchsafe to enlighten Thy Church by the merits and teachings of Thy blessed Confessor, Our Father Dominic, grant through his intercession that it may never be destitude of temporal help, and may always increase in spiritual growth. Through Christ our Lord.

R: Amen.

Ant. May Catherine, the virgin blessed, give us the enjoyment of the true light of Christ and unite us to the heavenly choirs.

V: My soul shall exault in the Lord.

R: And shall be delighted with His salvation.

Let us pray
O God, Who didst enable blessed Catherine, graced with a special privilege of virginity and patience, to overcome the assaults of evil spirits, and to stand unshaken in the love of Thy holy Name, grant, we beseech Thee, that, after her example, treading under foot the wickedness of the world and overcoming the wiles of enemies, we may safely pass onward to Thy glory. Through Christ our Lord.

R: Amen.

This Commemoration is made daily except at Lauds of Feast of first or second class. It is also omitted on April 30th and throughout the octave, in favor of the special Commemoration prayers for the festival.

Ant. O what happiness and glory belong always to the saints, how distinguished the merits of the Preachers, by whose words and deeds the world is adorned, by whose works the mind grows stronger.

V: The saints shall be joyful in glory.

R: They shall sing for joy on their couches.

Let us pray
Grant, we beseech Thee, almighty God, that the examples fo the saints of our Order may incite us to a better life; that we may imitate the deeds of them whose memory we celebrate. Through Christ our Lord.

R: Amen.

Ant. All ye saints of God vouchsafe to make intercession for our salvation, and for that of all.

V: Pray for us, all ye saints of God

R: That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let us pray
Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord, that all Thy saints may pray for us unceassingly, and vouchsafe in Thy clemency to hear them. Through Christ our Lord.

R: Amen.

Ant. Give peace, O Lord, in our days, because there is no other who will fight for us, except Thee, our God.

V: Let peace be in thy strength.

R: And abundance in thy towers.

Let us pray
O God, from Whom are holy desires, right counsels, and just works, grant to Thy servants that peace which the world cannot give; that our hearts being devoted to Thy commandments, and the fear of enemies being taken away, the times may, by Thy protection, be peaceful. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who with Thee liveth and reignth in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end.

R: Amen.

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
V: Let us bless the Lord.
R: Thanks be to God.

V: Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.

R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.

When one hour immediately follows another the Hail Mary is said only once between them.

Prime

At the time of Our Lord, the day, from sunrise until evening, was divided into four hours; the first hour (6-9 A.M.), the third hour (9 A.M to noon), the sixth hour (noon to 3 P.M), the ninth hour (3 P.M. to 6 P.M.). Wishing to consecrate all these divisions of the day to God, the Church appointed a prayer appropriate for each hour. Prime is the prayer of the first hour of daylight, and its purpose is to offer all the works of the day to God and obtain for them His protection and blessing

V: Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
V: Incline unto my aid O God.
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.
From Septuagesima until Easter instead of Alleluia is said : Praise be thee, O Lord, King of everlasting Glory

Hymn:,
Author of grace, sweet Saviour mine,
Remember that Thy flesh divine,
From the unsullied Virgin came,
Made like unto our mortal frame.

O Mary, Mother of all grace,
Mother of Mercy to our race,
Protect us now from Satan's power,
And own us at life's closing hour.

All glory be Thee, O Lord,
The Virgin's son, by all ador'd,
And equal praise forever greet,
The Father and the Paraclete. Amen.
 

Psalm 119. 
A prayer in tribulation

When I was in trouble, I called upon the Lord, * and he heard me.
2  Deliver my soul, O Lord, from lying lips, * and from a deceitful tongue.
3  What shall be given unto thee, or what shall be added unto thee, * to a deceitful tongue?
4  Even the sharp arrows of the mighty, * with hot burning coals.
5  Woe is me, that I sojourning is prolonged; I have dwelt with the inhabitants of Kedar : * my soul hath long dwelt among them.
6  With them that hated peace I was peaceable : * when I spake unto them, they fought against me without cause.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Psalm 120. 
God is the keeper of his Servant

I have lifted up mine eyes unto the hills; * from whence cometh my help.
2  My help cometh even from the Lord, * who hath made heaven and earth.
3  May he not suffer thy foot to be moved; * neither let him slumber that keepeth thee.
4  Behold, he that keepeth Israel * shall neither slumber nor sleep.
5  The Lord is thy keeper, the Lord is thy defence * upon thy right hand.
6  The sun shall not burn thee by day, * neither the moon by night.
7  The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil; * yea, it is even he that shall keep thy soul.
8  The Lord shall preserve thy going out, and thy coming in, * from this time forth for evermore.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Psalm 121. 
The desire and hope of the just for the coming of the kingdom of God, and the peace of His Church

I rejoiced at the things that were said unto me, * We will go into the house of the Lord.
2  Our feet shall stand * in thy gates, O Jerusalem.
3  Jerusalem is built as a city * that is at unity in itself.
4  For thither did the tribes go up, even the tribes of the Lord, * to testify unto Israel, to give thanks unto the Name of the Lord.
5  For their seats have sat in judgment, * even the seats upon the house of David.
6  O pray for the peace of Jerusalem; * they shall prosper that love thee.
7  Peace be within thy walls, * and plenteousness within thy palaces.
8  For my brethren and companions' sakes, * I spake peace of thee.
9  Yea, because of the house of the Lord our God, * I have sought to do thee good.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Ant. Vouchsafe that I may praise thee, O sacred Virgin: give me strength against thine enemies.

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.

R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

 Little Chapter
 ECCL. 24

From the beginning and before the world, was I created, and unto the world to come I shall not cease to be; and in the holy dwelling-place I ministered before Him.

R: Thanks be to God.

R: After childbirth, a virgin, * thou still didst remain undefiled.
Repeat: After childbirth, a virgin, * thou still didst remain undefiled.

V: Mother of God, intercede for us.

Repeat: Thou still didst remain undefiled.

V: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
Repeat: After childbirth, a virgin, * thou still didst remain undefiled.

V: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.

R: And blessed is the fruit of thy womb.

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
 

Let us pray
Pour forth, we beseech thee, O Lord, thy grace into our hearts, that we to whom the Incarnation of Christ thy Son was made known by the message of an Angel, may by his Passion and Cross be brought to the glory of the Resurrection.  Through the same Christ our Lord.

R: Amen.

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

R: Thanks be to God.
V: Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, Jesus.

Terce

The third hour (9 A.M) was sacred as a time of prayer to the Jews and the early Christians; and it was for long spoken of as " the holy hour," as it was the time when the Holy Ghost came upon Our Lady and the disciples in the Cenacle, and was later appointed as the hour for the celebration of the Holy Sacrifice. As the sun begins to diffuse warmth upon the earth at this time of the day, it is appropriate that at Terce we would especially ask for an increase of the fire of divine charity.

V: Hail Mary,full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.

V: Incline unto my aid O God.
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.

From Septuagesima until Easter instead of Alleluia is said : Praise be thee, O Lord, King of everlasting Glory

Hymn:,
Author of grace, sweet Saviour mine,
Remember that Thy flesh divine,
From the unsullied Virgin came,
Made like unto our mortal frame.

O Mary, Mother of all grace,
Mother of Mercy to our race,
Protect us now from Satan's power,
And own us at life's closing hour.

All glory be Thee, O Lord,
The Virgin's son, by all ador'd,
And equal praise forever greet,
The Father and the Paraclete. Amen.


Psalm [122]:
A prayer in affliction with confidence in God

Unto thee have I lift up mine eyes, * O thou that dwellest in the heavens.
2  Behold, even as the eyes of servants * look unto the hand of their masters,
3  And as the eyes of a maiden are on the hands of her mistress, * even so our eyes wait upon the Lord our God, until he have mercy upon us.
4  Have mercy upon us, O Lord, have mercy upon us; * for we are utterly despised.
5  Our soul is greatly filled; * we are a reproof to the wealthy, and contempt to the proud.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Psalm [123]:
The Church giveth glory to God for her deliverance from the hands of her enemies

If the Lord himself had not been on our side, let Israel now say; * if the Lord himself had not been on our side,
2  When men rose up against us; * perchance they had swallowed us up alive.
3  When they were so wrathfully displeased at us, * perchance their waters had drowned us.
4  Our soul hath passed through the torrent : * perchance our soul had passed through a water insupportable.
5  Blessed be the Lord, * who hath not given us over for a prey unto their teeth.
6  Our soul is escaped even as a bird * out of the snare of the fowler.
7  The snare is broken, * and we are delivered.
8  Our help is in the Name of the Lord, * who hath made heaven and earth.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Psalm [124]:
The just are always under God's protection

1 They that put their trust in the Lord shall be even as the mount Sion, * he shall stand fast for ever, that dwelleth in Jerusalem.
2  Mountains stand round about; * even so standeth the Lord round about his people, from this time forth for evermore.
3  For the Lord shall not leave the rod of sinners upon the lot of the just: * that the righteous may not stretch forth their hand unto wickedness.
4  Do well, O Lord, unto those that are good * and true of heart.
5  But such as turn aside unto bonds, the Lord shall lead them forth with the evil doers; * peace upon Israel.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Ant. Rejoice, O Virgin Mary, thou alone hast destroyed all heresies throughout the whole world.

Little Chapter
ECCL. 24

And so in Sion was I established, and in the holy city likewise did I rest, and in Jerusalem was my power.

R: Thanks be to God.

V: Holy Mary, Mother of Christ, * hear thy servants imploring thee.
Repeat: Holy Mary, Mother of Christ, * hear thy servants imploring thee.

V: And bring to us from heaven the pardon thou obtainest.

Repeat: Hear thy servants imploring thee.

V: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
Repeat: Holy Mary, Mother of Christ, * hear thy servants imploring thee.

V.  Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God.
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.


The prayer varies according to the season

During Advent
Let us pray

O God, Who wast pleased at the message of an angel, Thy Word should take flesh from the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary, grant that we, Thy suppliants, who believe her to be truly the Mother of God, may be helped through her intercession with Thee. Throught the same Jesus Christ our Lord, Thy Son, Who with Thee liveth and reigneth in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God world without end .

R: Amen.

From Christmas to Purification
Let us pray

O God, Who through the fruitful virginity of Blessed Mary, hast given to mankind the reward of eternal salvation, grant, we beseech Thee, that we may feel the intercession she makes for us, through whom we have been made worthy to receive the Author of life, our Lord Jesus Christ our Lord, Thy Son, Who with Thee liveth and reigneth in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God world without end .

R: Amen.

From Purification to Advent
Let us pray

Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord God, that we, Thy servants, may enjoy continual health of mind and body; and that through the glorious intercession of blessed Mary, ever virgin, we may be delivered from present sorrow and enjoy eternal happiness through our Lord Jesus Christ our Lord, Thy Son, Who with Thee liveth and reigneth in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God world without end .

R: Amen.

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

R: Thanks be to God.
V: Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, Jesus.

Sext

The sixth hour of the day (noon) is hallowed as being the time when our Lord was nailed to the Cross and later ascended into heaven. The special blessings that may suitably be asked for in Sext, the Prayer of the Sixth Hour, are charity towards our neighbor, health of body and peace of mind amidst the occupations in which we are engaged.

V: Hail Mary,full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.

V: Incline unto my aid O God.
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.

From Septuagesima until Easter instead of Alleluia is said : Praise be thee, O Lord, King of everlasting Glory

Hymn:,
Author of grace, sweet Saviour mine,
Remember that Thy flesh divine,
From the unsullied Virgin came,
Made like unto our mortal frame.

O Mary, Mother of all grace,
Mother of Mercy to our race,
Protect us now from Satan's power,
And own us at life's closing hour.

All glory be Thee, O Lord,
The Virgin's son, by all ador'd,
And equal praise forever greet,
The Father and the Paraclete. Amen.

Psalm [125]:
The people of God rejoice at their delivery from captivity

When the Lord brought back the captives of Sion, * then we became like men comforted.
2  Then was our mouth filled with gladness, * and our tongue with joy.
3  Then shall they say among the heathen, * The Lord hath done great things for them.
4  Yea, the Lord hath done great things for us; * whereof we rejoice.]: 5  Turn again our captivity, O Lord, * as the rivers in the south.
6  They that sow in tears * shall reap in joy.
7  Going they went and wept, * casting their seed.
8  But coming they shall come again with joyfulness, * carrying their sheaves.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Psalm [126]:
Nothing can be done without God's grace and blessing

1  Except the Lord build the house, * they labor in vain that build it.
2  Except the Lord keep the city, * the watchman waketh but in vain.
3  It is vain for you to rise up before the light : * rise ye after ye have taken your rest, ye that eat the bread of sorrow. 4  When he giveth his beloved sleep : * behold, children are the heritage of the Lord: the reward, and the fruit of the womb.
5  Like as the arrows in the hand of the mighty, * even so are the children of the them that have been shaken.
6  Blessed is the man that hath filled the desire with them; * he shall not be confounded when he shall speak with his enemies in the gate.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Psalm [127]:
The fear of God is the way to happiness.

Blessed are all they that fear the Lord, * and walk in his ways.
2  For thou shalt eat the labors of thine hands: * blessed art thou, and it shall be well with thee.
3  Thy wife shall be as the fruitful vine * upon the walls of thine house;
4  Thy children like the olive-branches * round about thy table.
5  Lo, thus shall the man be blessed * that feareth the Lord. 6  The Lord bless thee out of Sion, * that thou shalt see Jerusalem in prosperity all the days of thy life.
7  Yea, that thou shalt see thy children's children, * and peace upon Israel.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Ant. In offspring a mother, in childbirth a virgin, rejoice and be glad, O Virgin, Mother of the Lord.

Little Chapter
ECCL. 24

And I took root in an honorable people, and in the portion of my God is his inheritance, and my abode is in the full assembly of the saints.

R: Thanks be to God.

V: Pray for us, * O holy Mother of God.
Repeat: Pray for us, * O holy Mother of God.

V: That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Repeat: O holy Mother of God.

V: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
Repeat: Pray for us, * O holy Mother of God.

V.  God hath chosen her and preferred her.
R. And He maketh her to dwell in His tabernacle.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

Let us pray

Protect Thy servants, O Lord, by granting them the gift of peace, and as they have confidence in the patronage of blessed Mary, ever virgin, so do Thou make them safe from all enemies. Through our Lord Jesus Christ our Lord, Thy Son, Who with Thee liveth and reigneth in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God world without end .

R: Amen.

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

R: Thanks be to God.

V: Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, Jesus.

None

At the ninth hour (3 P. M.) when the sun begins to decline in the heavens, Our Lord expired on the Cross. The Prayer of the Ninth Hour, therefore, commemorates the death of the Redeemer; and it bids us look forward to the decline of our own days and beg the grace of a happy death.

V: Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.

V: Incline unto my aid O God.
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.
From Septuagesima until Easter instead of Alleluia is said : Praise be thee, O Lord, King of everlasting Glory

Hymn:,
Author of grace, sweet Saviour mine,
Remember that Thy flesh divine,
From the unsullied Virgin came,
Made like unto our mortal frame.

O Mary, Mother of all grace,
Mother of Mercy to our race,
Protect us now from Satan's power,
And own us at life's closing hour.

All glory be Thee, O Lord,
The Virgin's son, by all ador'd,
And equal praise forever greet,
The Father and the Paraclete. Amen.

Psalm [128]:
The Church of God is invincible: her persecutors come to nothing

Many a time have they fought against me from my youth up, * let Israel now say;
2  Yea, many a time have they fought against me from my youth up; * but they have not prevailed against me.
3  The ungodly have wrought upon my back, * they have lengthened their iniquity. 4  The righteous Lord hath hewn the necks of the ungodly * let them be confounded and turned backward, as many as hate Sion.
6  Let them be even as the grass upon the housetops, * which withereth afore it be grown up;
7  Whereof the mower filleth not his hand, * neither he that bindeth up the sheaves his bosom.
8  And  they who go by say not: The blessing of the Lord be upon you; * we have blessed you in the Name of the Lord.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Psalm [129]:
A prayer of a sinner trusting in mercies of God

Out of the depths I have cried unto thee, O Lord; * Lord, hear my voice.
2  O let thine ears be attentive * to the voice of my supplication.
3  If thou, O Lord, shalt observe our iniquities, * Lord, who may endure it?
4  For with thee there is merciful forgiveness : * and by reason of thy law, I have waited for thee, O Lord.
5  My soul hath relied on his word * my soul hath hoped in the Lord.
6  From the morning watch even until night : * let Israel hope in the Lord.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Psalm [130]:
The prophet's humility.

O Lord, mine heart is not exalted; * nor are mine eyes raised up high.
2  Neither have I walked in great matters * nor in wondrous things above me.
3  If I was not humbly minded, * but exalted my soul.
4  Like as a child that is weaned is towards his mother: * even so is the reward in my soul.
4  Let Israel hope in the Lord * from this time forth for evermore.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Ant. Blessed Mother and Virgin undefiled, glorious Queen of the world, intercede for us with the Lord.

 Little Chapter
 ECCL. 24

I was exalted like the cedar in Libanus, and like a cypress on Mount Sion. Like a palm tree in Cades was I exalted, and like a rose plant in Jericho.

R: Thanks be to God.

V: God hath chosen her * and preferred her.
Repeat: God hath chosen her * and preferred her.

V: And He maketh her to dwell in His tabernacle.

Repeat: And preferred her.

V: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
Repeat:God hath chosen her * and preferred her.

V.  O ever virgin, Mary, holy Mother of God.
R. Intercede for us with Lord our God.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

Let us pray

Forgive, we beseech Thee, O Lord, the sins of Thy servants, that we who cannot be pleasing to Thee by our deeds, may be saved by the intercession of the Mother of Thy Son, our Lord, Who with Thee liveth and reigneth in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God world without end .

R: Amen.

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

R: Thanks be to God.

V: Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, Jesus.

Vespers

When the sun has set and Vesper, the evening star, has appeared, the Church offers up another Canonical Hour to God, that of Vespers or Evening Praises. The hour for the evening sacrifice of incense in the Temple was 6 P.M. and it was also at this time that Our Lord at the Last Supper instituted the Sacrifice of the Mass. The prayers of Vespers are said very appropriately, therefore, as praises of Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament.

V: Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.

R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.

V: Incline unto my aid O God.
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.

From Septuagesima until Easter instead of Alleluia is said : Praise be thee, O Lord, King of everlasting Glory
 

Psalm 109. 
God is to be praised for His regard to the poor and humble

The Lord said unto my Lord, * Sit thou on my right hand:
2  Until I make thine enemies * thy footstool.
3  The Lord shall send the rod of thy power out of Sion: * be thou ruler, even in the midst among thine enemies.
4  Thine shall be the dominion in the day of thy power, amid the brightness of the saints : * from the womb before the day star have I begotten thee.
5  The Lord sware, and will not repent, * Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedech.
6  The Lord upon thy right hand * shall wound even kings in the day of his wrath.
7  He shall judge among the heathen; he shall fill the places with the dead bodies: * and smite in sunder the heads over divers countries.
8  He shall drink of the brook in the way; * therefore shall he lift up his head.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Psalm 112. 
God is to be praised for His regard to the poor and humble

Praise the Lord, O ye his servants; * O praise the Name of the Lord.
2  (all bow) Blessed be the Name of the Lord * from this time forth for evermore.
3  From the rising up of the sun unto the going down of the same, * the Lord's Name be praised.
4  The Lord is high above all nations, * and his glory above the heavens.
5  Who is like unto the Lord our God, that hath his dwelling on high, * and beholdeth what is lowly in heaven and in the earth?
6  He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, * and lifteth the needy out of the dung hill.
7  That he may set him with the princes, * even with the princes of his people.
8  He maketh the barren woman to keep house, * and to be a joyful mother of children..

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Psalm 121.
The desire and hope of the just for coming of the kingdom of God, and the peace of His Church

1  I was glad † at the things that were said unto me, * †† We will go into the house of the Lord.
2  Our feet shall stand * in thy gates, O Jerusalem.
3  Jerusalem is built as a city * that is at unity in itself.
4  For thither did the tribes go up, even the tribes of the Lord, * to testify unto Israel, to give thanks unto the Name of the Lord.
5  For their seats have sat in judgment, * even the seats upon the house of David.
6  O pray for the peace of Jerusalem; * they shall prosper that love thee.
7  Peace be within thy walls, * and plenteousness within thy palaces.
8  For my brethren and companions' sakes, * I spake peace of thee.
9  Yea, because of the house of the Lord our God, * I have sought to do thee good.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Psalm 126.  
Nothing can be done without God's grace and blessing.

Except the Lord build the house, * they labour in vain that build it.
2  Except the Lord keep the city, * the watchman waketh but in vain.
3  It is vain for you to rise up before the light : * rise ye after ye have sitten, ye that eat the bread of sorrow.
4  When he giveth his beloved sleep : * behold, children are the heritage of the Lord: the reward, and the fruit of the womb.
5  Like as the arrows in the hand of the mighty, * even so are the children of the them that have been shaken.
6  Blessed is the man that hath filled the desire with them; * he shall not be confounded when he shall speak with his enemies in the gate.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Psalm 147.  
The Church is called upon to praise for His peculiar graces and favors to His people

1  Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem; *  praise thy God, O Sion.
2  For he hath made fast the bars of thy gates, * and hath blessed thy children within thee.
3  Who hath placed peace in thy borders, * and filleth thee with the fat of the crops.
4  Who sendeth forth his commandment upon earth, * and his word runneth swiftly.
5  Who giveth snow like wool, * and scattereth the mist like ashes.
6  He sendeth his ice like morsels: * who is able to abide before the face of his frost?
7  He shall send out his word, and shall melt them: * his spirit shall breathe forth, and the waters shall flow.
8  Who declareth his word unto Jacob, * his statutes and judgments unto Israel.
9  He hath not dealt so with every nation; * neither hath he given them knowledge of his judgments.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Ant. Holy Mother of God, Mary ever virgin, intercede for us with the Lord our God. Mother of God, intercede for us.

Little Chapter
ECCL. 24

Like a vine, I gave forth a sweet perfume like cinnamon and aromatical balm:
I yielded an odor of sweetness, like the choicest myrrh.

R: Thanks be to God.

Hymn:,
Kneel for the first stanza
Hail, O star of ocean,
God's own Mother blest,
Ever sinless Virgin,
Gate of heaven's rest.

Taking that sweet Ave,
Which from Gabriel came.
Peace confirm within us,
Changing Eva's name.

Break the sinners fetters,
To the blind give day,
Ward all evils from us,
For all blessings pray.

Show thyself a mother,
May the Word Divine,
Born for us thine infant,
Hear our pray'rs through thine.

Virgin all excelling,
Mildest of the mild,
Free from sin preserve us,
Meek and undefil'd.

Keep our lives all spotless,
Make our way secure,
Till we find in Jesus,
Joys that shall endure.

Praise to God the Father,
Honor to the Son,
Be the glory one. Amen.

V: Pray for us, O holy Mother of God.

R: That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

CANTICLE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
The Magnificat

Luc. 1. 46-55

1  My soul * doth magnify the Lord.
2  And my spirit hath rejoiced * in God my Saviour.
3  For he hath regarded the lowliness of his handmaiden : * for behold, from henceforth * all generations shall call me blessed.
4  For he that is mighty hath magnified me; * (Here all make a profound reverence) and holy is his Name.
5  And his mercy is on them that fear him * throughout all generations.
6  He hath shewed strength with his arm; * he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
7  He hath put down the mighty from their seat, * and hath exalted the humble and meek.
8  He hath filled the hungry with good things; * and the rich he hath sent empty away.
9  He remembering his mercy * hath holpen his servant Israel.
10  As he promised to our forefathers, * Abraham and his seed for ever.
11  Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.
12  As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

During Advent
Ant. O Virgin of virgins, how will this be done! For thou art seen to have none like thee either before or after. Ye daughters of Jerusalem, why look ye at me in wonder? This mystery which ye see is all divine.

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.

R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

Let us pray
O God, Who wast please that, at the message of an angel, Thy Word should take flesh from the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary, grant that we, Thy suppliants, who truly believe her to be the Mother of God, may be helped by her intercession with Thee. Through the same Christ our Lord.

R: Amen.

From first Vespers of Christmas to first Vespers of Purification
Ant. O wonderful intercourse! the Creator of human kind, taking unto Himself a living body, vouchsafed to be born of a virgin; and coming forth amongst us, a man without human generation bestowed upon us His divinity.

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.

R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

Let us pray
O God, Who through the fruitful virginity of blessed Mary, hast given to mankind the reward of eternal salvation, grant, we beseech Thee that we may feel the intercession she makes for us, through whom we have been made worthy the Author of Life ,Christ our Lord.

R: Amen.

From the Purification to Easter Sunday

During Paschal Time
Ant. O Queen of heaven, rejoice , alleluia; for He Whom thou didst merit to bear, alleluia, hath risen as He said alleluia; pray to God for us, alleluia.

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.

R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord God, that we, Thy servants, may enjoy continual health of mind and body; and that, through the glorious intercession of blessed Mary, ever virgin, we may be delivered from present sorrow, and enjoy eternal happiness. Through Christ our Lord.

R: Amen.

From Trinity Sunday to Advent
Ant. Holy Mary, succor the miserable, help the faint hearted, comfort the sorrowful, pray for the people, plead for the clergy, make intercession for the devout female sex.

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.

R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

Let us pray
Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord God, that we, Thy servants, may enjoy continual health of mind and body; and that, through the intercession of blessed Mary, ever virgin, we may be delivered from present sorrow, and enjoy eternal happiness. Through Christ our Lord.

R: Amen.

Ant. O great and holy Father, Dominic, at the hour of death take us to thyself, and while here regard us always graciously.
 

V: The mouth of the just man shall speak wisdom.

R: And his tongue shall speak judgment.

Let us pray
O God, Who didst vouchsafe to enlighten Thy Church by the merits and teachings of Thy blessed Confessor, Our Father Dominic, grant through his intercession that it may never be destitute of temporal help, and may always increase in spiritual growth. Through Christ our Lord.

R: Amen.

Ant. May the virgin, Catherine, cherishing us by her merits, lead us to the throne of the heavenly kingdom.

V: The sparrow hath found herself a house.

R: And the turtle dove a nest for herself, where she may place her young.

Let us pray
O God, Who didst enable blessed Catherine, graced with a special privilege of virginity and patience, to overcome the assaults of evil spirits, and to stand unshaken in the love of Thy holy Name, grant, we beseech Thee, that, after her example, treading under foot the wickedness of the world and overcoming the wiles of enemies, we may safely pass onward to Thy glory. Through Christ our Lord.

R: Amen.

This Commemoration is made daily except at Lauds of Feast of first or second class. It is also omitted on April 30th and throughout the octave, in favor of the special Commemoration prayers for the festival.

Ant. The holy grace of Christ hath exalted the saints, whom the Order of Father Dominic has raised up. We beg to be helped by their merits and to be commended to God by their prayers.

V: The wisdom of the holy the peoples shall speak.

R: And their praise the Church shall proclaim.

Let us pray
Grant, we beseech Thee, almighty God, that the examples for the saints of our Order may incite us to a better life; that we may imitate the deeds of them whose memory we celebrate. Through Christ our Lord.

R: Amen.

Ant. All ye saints of God vouchsafe to make intercession for our salvation, and for that of all.

V: Pray for us, all ye saints of God

R: That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let us pray
Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord, that all Thy saints may pray for us unceasingly, and vouchsafe in Thy clemency to hear them. Through Christ our Lord.

R: Amen.

Ant. Give peace, O Lord, in our days, because there is no other who will fight for us, except Thee, our God.

V: Let peace be in thy strength.

R: And abundance in thy towers.

Let us pray
O God, from Whom are holy desires, right counsels, and just works, grant to Thy servants that peace which the world cannot give; that our hearts being devoted to Thy commandments, and the fear of enemies being taken away, the times may, by Thy protection, be peaceful. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who with Thee liveth and reignth in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end.

R: Amen.

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
V: Let us bless the Lord.
R: Thanks be to God.

V: Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.

R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.

Compline

The word "Compline" means completion, and the Hour called by this name is the closing prayer of the Office. It was formerly said about 9 P.M, when darkness had spread over the earth and those who had labored throughout the day were preparing to take their repose. Hence it may be called the Night Prayer of the Church. The thoughts that may well inspire our prayers during Compline are the need we have of divine protection against the powers of darkness and the other dangers that encompass us, especially during night and when we shall be entering upon the sleep of death.

V: Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
V: Convert us, O God, our Savior.
R: And turn away Thy wrath from us.
V: Incline unto my aid O God.
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.

From Septuagesima until Easter instead of Alleluia is said : Praise be thee, O Lord, King of everlasting Glory

Psalm 131. 
A prayer for the fulfilling of the promises made to David

O Lord, remember David, * and all his meekness:
2  How he sware unto the Lord, * and vowed a vow unto the God of Jacob:
3  I will not come within the tabernacle of mine house, * nor go up into the bed wherein I lie;
4  I will not suffer mine eyes to sleep, * nor mine eyelids to slumber;
5  Neither the temples of my head to take any rest : * until I find out a place for the Lord, a tabernacle for the God of Jacob.
6  Lo, we heard of it at Ephratah, * and found it in the fields of the wood.
7  We will go into his tabernacle, * and worship in the place where his feet stood.
8  Arise, O Lord, into thy resting-place; * thou, and the ark which thou hast sanctified.
9  Let thy priests be clothed with righteousness; * and let thy saints rejoice.
10  For the sake of thy servant David, * turn not away the face of thine anointed.
11  The Lord hath made a faithful oath unto David, and he shall not make it void : * of the fruit of thy womb shall I set upon thy throne.
12  If thy children will keep my covenant, * and my testimonies that I shall teach them.
13  Their children also for evermore : * shall sit upon thy throne.
14  For the Lord hath chosen Sion * he hath chosen it to be an habitation for himself.
15  This shall be my rest for ever and ever: * here will I dwell, for I have chosen it.
16  Blessing I will bless her widow : * and will satisfy her poor with bread.
17  I will clothe her priests with salvation, * and her saints shall rejoice with exceeding great joy.
18  There will I bring forth make a horn unto David : * I have prepared a lantern for mine anointed.
19  His enemies will I clothe with confusion; * but upon him shall my sanctification flourish..

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Psalm 132.
An exhortation to praise God continually

Behold, how good † and joyful a thing it is, * for brethren to dwell together in unity.
2  †† It is like the precious oil upon the head, * that ran down upon the beard, even upon the beard of Aaron.
3  That went down to the skirts of his clothing : * like as the dew of Hermon, which fell upon mount Sion.
4  For there the Lord hath commanded blessing, * and life for evermore.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Psalm 133.  
The prophet aspireth after God

Behold now, bless the Lord, * all ye servants of the Lord;
2  Ye that stand in the house of the Lord, * even in the courts of the house of our God.
3  Lift up your hands by night in the sanctuary, * and bless ye the Lord.
4  The Lord that made heaven and earth * give thee blessing out of Sion.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

Ant. After childbirth thou didst still remain a virgin undefiled: Mother of God, intercede for us.

Little Chapter
ECCL. 24

I am the mother of fair love, and of fear, and of knowledge, and of holy hope.

R: Thanks be to God.

R: Intercede for us, O holy Virgin of virgins * Mary, Mother of God.
Repeat: Intercede for us, O holy Virgin of virgins * Mary, Mother of God.

V: That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Repeat: Mary, Mother of God.

V: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
Repeat: Intercede for us, O holy Virgin of virgins * Mary, Mother of God.

Hymn:,
Virgin all excelling,
Mildest of the mild,
Free from sin preserve us,
Meek and undefiled.

Keep our lives all spotless,
Make our way secure,
Till we find in Jesus,
Joys that shall endure.

Praise to God the Father,
Honor to the Son,
To the Holy Spirit,
Be glory one. Amen.
 

THE CANTICLE OF SIMEON

 Luke 2.29-32.

† Now Thou dost dismiss Thy servant, O Lord * according to Thy word.
2  Because mine eyes have seen * Thy salvation,
3  Which thou hast prepared * before the face of all people;
4  A light for the revelation of the gentiles, * and to be the glory of Thy people Israel.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end.  Amen.

The following Anthem is said kneeling:
Ant. We fly to they patronage, O holy Mother of God; despise not our petitions in our necessities, but deliver us from all dangers, O ever blessed Virgin.

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.

R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

Let us pray
Grant, O merciful God, protection for our frailty: that we who celebrate the memory of the holy Mother of God may, by the help of her intercession, arise from our sins. Through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord, Thy Son, Who with Thee liveth and reignth in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end.
 

R: Amen.

V: O Lord, hear my prayer.

R: And let my cry come unto Thee.

V: Let us bless the Lord.

R: Thanks be to God.

Blessing

May the blessing of Almighty God , Father, Son and Holy Ghost descend upon and remain with us forever.

R. Amen.

When office is said in choir the Salve and O Lumen should be sung. All should assist at the daily procession that occurs during them. Yet, those who are prevented may say them privately in the order following or terminate the office at this point with the customary Ave Maria.

The Salve and O Lumen are omitted on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of Holy Week.

Hail, holy Queen, Mother of mercy, hail, our life, our sweetness, and our hope!  To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve, to thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this vale of tears.  Turn then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy towards us; and after this our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus.  O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary.

V.  Make me worthy to praise thee, holy Virgin. P.T. Alleluia.
R.  Give me strength against thine enemies.P.T. Alleluia.

Let us pray
Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord God, that we, Thy servants, may enjoy continual health of mind and body; and that, through the intercession of blessed Mary, ever virgin, we may be delivered from present sorrow, and enjoy eternal hapiness. Through Christ our Lord.

R: Amen.

O Light of the Church, doctor of truth, rose of patience, ivory of chastity, freely hast thou  dispensed the water of wisdom: preacher of grace, unite us to the blessed. P.T. Alleluia.

V.  Pray for us, blessed Father Dominic. P.T. Alleluia.

R.  That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. P.T. Alleluia.

Let us pray
Grant, we beseech Thee, almighty God, that we who are oppressed with the weight of our sins may be relieved
by the intercession of Thy Confessor and our Father, the Blessed Dominic Through Christ our Lord.

R: Amen.

V: Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
 

To the humanity of our crucified Lord Jesus Christ;
To the fruitful virginity of most blessed and glorious Virgin Mary;
And to the entire Company of the Saints of God, in heaven;
Be praise, honor, power, and glory, from every creature on earth:
And likewise to us sinners may there be full remission of all our sins:
Throughout all ages, world without end.
R.  Amen.

V. Blessed is the womb of the Virgin Mary, which bore the Son of the everlasting Father.
R.  And blessed are the breasts which nourished Christ the Lord.

Then for the welfare of Holy Mother Church, pray One Our father, Hail Mary in secret
 

OFFICE OF THE DEAD

ACCORDING TO THE DOMINICAN RITE 

The Chaplet of Saint Dominic

or

"A Cry of Anguish"

Said on a normal Rosary

LARGE BEADS: "O Spem Miram"

V. O Wonderful hope, which thou gavest to those who wept for thee, at the hour of thy death, promising after thy departure, to be helpful to thy brethren!

R. Fulfill, O Father , what thou hast said, and help us by thy prayers.

V. O thou who dist shine illustrious by so many miracles wrought on the bodies of the sick, bring us the help of Christ to heal our sick souls.

R. Fulfill, O Father , what thou hast said, and help us by thy prayers.

V. Glory Be...

R. Fulfill, O Father , what thou hast said, and help us by thy prayers.

V. Pray for us blessed Father Dominic

R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let us Pray: O God, who hast enlightened Thy Church by the eminent virtues and preaching of blessed Dominic, Thy confessor and our Father, mercifully grant that by his prayers it may never lack temporal help, and may ever increase in all spiritual good. Through Christ, Our Lord. Amen.

SMALL BEADS:

Holy father, cast thy mind

On the work thy hands designed;

In the Judge's presence stand

For thy poor and lowly band.

V. Pray for us, O holy Father, Saint Dominic

R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let us Pray: O God, whose property it is always to have mercy and to spare, we humbly beseech Thee, that we who spoil the works of Thy glory by our sins and are justly afflicted for what we have done, may, by the merits and intercession of Blessed Dominic, Thy confessor and Father, be comforted in our trials, and ever obey Thy divine will. Through Jesu Christ , Thy Son. Amen.

Prayers to Saint Dominic

"O wonderful hope which thou gavest to those who wept for thee in the hour of thy death, promising after thy departure to be helpful to thy brethren; fulfill, O Father Dominic, what thou hast said, and assist us by thy prayers."

V. Pray for us, Blessed Father Dominic.

R. That we may be made worthy of the promise of Christ.

Let us Pray: O God, who didst vouchsafe to enlighten Thy Church with the merits and teaching of blessed Dominic, Thy confessor and our father; grant through his intercession, that we may not be wanting in temporal help, and may we always increase in spiritual growth. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayers to Saint Dominic (cont.)

The faithful who on Tuesday of each week spend some time in devout meditation or prayers in honor of St. Dominic or perform some other act of piety, with the intention of repeating this act of homage for fifteen continuous Tuesdays, may obtain: A plenary Indulgence on the usual circumstance

I. O glorious Saint Dominic, thou who was a model of mortification and purity, by punishing thy innocent body with scourges, with fastings and with watchings, and by keeping inviolate the lily of thy virginity, obtain for us the grace to practice penance with a generous heart and to keep unspotted the purity of our bodies and our hearts.

Our Father, hail Mary, Glory Be.

II. O great Saint, who, inflamed with divine love, did find thy delight in prayer and intimate union with God; obtain for us to be faithful in our daily prayers, to love Our Lord ardently, and to observe His commandments with ever increasing fidelity.

Our Father, hail Mary, Glory Be.

III. O glorious Saint Dominic, who being filled with zeal for the salvation of souls, did preach the Gospel in season and out of season and did establish the Order of Friars Preachers to labor for the conversion of heretics and poor sinners, pray thou to God for us, that He may grant us to love all our brethren sincerely and to cooperate always, by our prayers and good works, in their sanctification and eternal salvation.

Our Father, hail Mary, Glory Be.

V. Pray for us, Saint Dominic,

R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ

Let us Pray,

Grant, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, that we who are weighed down by the burden of our sins may be raised up by the patronage of blessed Dominic Thy confessor. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

An Indulgence of 300 days, plenary when these prayers together with versicle and prayer have been recited for a month

The Litany of St. Dominic

Lord, have mercy on us. , Christ, have mercy on us.
Lord, have mercy on us. Christ, hear us, Christ, graciously hear us.
God the Father of Heaven, Have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world, Have mercy on us.
God the Holy Spirit, Have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, One God, Have mercy on us.
Holy Mary , pray for us.
Holy Mother of God, pray for us.
Holy Virgin of virgins, etc.
Our glorious father, Saint Dominic,
Follower of Jesus Christ,
Eminently endowed with the virtues of His Sacred Heart,
Adorer of the Blessed Sacrament,
Singularly devoted to our Blessed Lady,
Promoter of her honor,
Promulgator of the Holy Rosary,
Splendor of the Priesthood,
Founder of the Friars Preachers,
Confounder of the Albigenses,
Reviver of ecclesiastical discipline,
Rose of patience,
Most ardent for the salvation of souls,
Most desirous of martyrdom,
Evangelical man,
Doctor of truth,
Ivory of chastity,
Man of truly apostolic heart,
Poor in the midst of riches,
Rich in an unspotted life,
Burning with zeal for perishing souls,
Preacher of the Gospel,
Rule of abstinence,
Herald of Heavenly things,
Salt of the earth,
Thou who didst water the earth with thy precious blood,
Shining in the choir of virgins,
Saint Dominic most humble,
Saint Dominic most obedient,
Saint Dominic most chaste,
Saint Dominic most charitable,
That at the hour of death we may be received into Heaven with thee,

Be merciful unto us, O Lord, and pardon us.
Be merciful unto us, O Lord, and graciously hear us.
From all sin and evil, O Lord, deliver us.
From the snares of the devil, O Lord, deliver us.
From eternal death, etc.

By the merits of our holy father, Saint Dominic,
By his ardent love,
By his indefatigable zeal,
By his extraordinary labors,
By his inexpressible penances,
By his voluntary poverty,
By his perpetual chastity,
By his perfect obedience,
By his profound humility,
By his rare constancy,
By all his other virtues,

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Spare us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Graciously hear us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Have mercy on us.

V. Pray for us, O holy father, Saint Dominic,
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let Us Pray.
Grant, we beseech Thee, O Almighty God, that we who are weighed down by the burden of our sins may be relieved by the patronage of Saint Dominic, Thy confessor and our father.
Through Christ Our Lord. R. Amen.  

Prayers to Saint Vincent Ferrer

(St. Vincent Ferrer has been invoked very successfully in times of physical trouble.)

O Glorious apostle and thaumaturge, St. Vincent Ferrer, the new angel of the Apocalypse and our protector, accept our humble prayer and bring down upon us the abundance of divine favors. By that charity which animated thy heart, obtain for us from the Father of all mercy the pardon of our sins, steadfastness in the faith, perseverance in good works; so that living a fervent Christian life, we may deserve thy powerful patronage. Extend that patronage even to our bodies, and free them from infirmity. Preserve our fields from the damages of storm and hail, and keep off all misfortune. Thus favored by Thee with blessings in soul and body, we shall ever be thy devout clients, and one day with thee praise God in heaven, world without end. Amen.

An Indulgence of 200 days, once a day.- Pope Leo XIII., Sept. 17, 1887.

Prayer of St. Thomas Aquinas for a Holy Life

Grant me, O merciful God, that what is pleasing to Thee I may ardently desire, prudently examine, truthfully acknowledge, and perfectly accomplish for the praise and glory of Thy name. Ordain, O my God, my whole life, and what Thou requirest that I should do, grant me to know it and to fulfill as is meet and profitable to my soul. Give me Thy grace, O Lord my God, that I may not fail in prosperity or in adversity, avoiding pride in the former and discouragement in the latter. May I rejoice in nothing but what leads to Thee, grieve for nothing but what turns away from Thee. May I wish to please or displease n one but Thee.

May I despise, O Lord, all transitory things, and prize only that which is eternal. May I shun ant joy that is without Thee, nor wish for anything outside of Thee. May I delight in any work taken up for Thee, and tire of any rest which is without Thee. Grant me, O my God, to direct my heart toward Thee, and in my failings constantly grieve, with the purpose of a amendment.

Make me, O Lord, my God, obedient without contradiction, poor without depression, chaste without corruption patient without murmuring, humble without pretence, cheerful without dissipation, mature without dullness, prompt without levity, fearing Thee without despair, truthful without duplicity, doing good without presumption, correcting my neighbor without haughtiness, and edifying him by word and example without hypocrisy.

Give me, O Lord God, a watchful heart, which no curious thought will turn away from Thee; a noble heart, which no unworthy affection will drag down; a righteous heart, which no irregular intention will twist aside; a firm heart, which no tribulation will break; a free heart, which no violent affection will claim for itself.

Grant me finally, O Lord my God, science in knowing Thee, diligence in seeking Thee, wisdom in finding Thee, a conduct pleasing to Thee, a perseverance trustfully awaiting Thee, and a confidence finally embracing Thee. May I endure Thy punishments by penitence; profit by Thy benefits by grace in this world, and enjoy Thy blessedness by glory in the next; Who livest and reignest, true God, forever and ever. Amen

An indulgence of 3 years, once a day- Pope Leo XIII., Jan. 17, 1888

Invocation to St. Thomas Aquinas

before Lecture or Study

O Blessed Thomas, patron of schools, obtain for us from God an invincible faith, burning charity, a chaste life, and true knowledge, through Christ our Lord. Amen.

PRAYER TO BE SAID BEFORE STUDY OR CLASS

O Merciful God, grant that I may eagerly desire, carefully search out, truthfully acknowledge, and ever perfectly fulfill all things which are pleasing to Thee, to the praise and glory of Thy name. Amen.

Prayer which St. Thomas Aquinas was accustomed to recite every day before the image of Jesus Christ

Grant me grace, O merciful God to desire ardently all that is pleasing to Thee, to examine it prudently, to acknowledge it truthfully and to accomplish it perfectly, for the praise and glory of Thy name. Amen.

(An indulgence of 300 days to all the faithful who, before studying orr reading, shall, with at least contrite heart and devotion, recite this prayer- Pope Leo XIII., June 21, 1879)

Prayer which St. Thomas Aquinas composed and frequently recited before dictating, writing or preaching

O' Ineffable Creator, Who out of the depths of Thy wisdom didst appoint three hierarchies of angels, and place them in wonderful harmony above the empyrean heaven, and dist order most perfectly Thy whole creation; Thou, Who art the true fountain and highest source of light and wisdom, deign to shed  a ray of Thy brightness upon the darkness of my intellect, taking from me that twofold darkness in which I was born, namely, sin, and ignorance. O Thou Who makest eloquent the tongues of little ones, instruct my tongue, and pour upon my lips the grace of Thy blessing. Grant me a keen intellect a strong memory, method and facility in learning, subtlety in interpreting and elegance of speech; enlighten the beginning, direct the progress, perfect the issue, Thou Who art true God and man, Who livest and reignest forever. Amen

(An indulgence of 200 days, once a day- Pope Leo XIII., Feb. 21, 1880.)

Hymn to St. Pius V

Wars and tumults fill the earth;

Men the fear of God despise;

Retribution, vengeance, wrath,

Brood upon the angry skies.

Holy Pius! Pope sublime!

Whom, in this most evil time-

Whom, of saints in bliss, can we

Better call to aid than thee?

None more mightily than thou

Hath, by holy deed or word,

Through the spacious earth below

Spread the glory of the Lord.

Thine it was, O pontiff brave!

Pontiff of eternal Rome!

From barbaric yoke to save

Terror-stricken Christendom.

When Lepanto's gulf beheld,

Strewn upon its waters fair,

Turkey's countless navy yield

To the power of thy prayer.

Who meanwhile which prophet's eye

Didst the distant battle see,

And announce to standers-by

That same moment's victory.

Mightier now and glorified,

Hear the suppliant cry we pour;

Crush rebellion's haughty pride;

Quell the din of rising war.

At thy prayer may golden peace

Down to earth descend again:

License, discord, trouble, cease;

Justice, truth and order reign.

To the Lord of endless days,

One Almighty Trinity,

Sempiternal glory, praise,

Honor, might, and blessing be.

V. Pray for us, Blessed Pius.

R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let us Pray

O God, Who, to the utter destruction of the enemies of Thy Church, and to the restoration of Thy holy worship, didst vouchsafe to choose blessed Pius to be Thy high priest: grant us to be so defended by his protection, and to remain so steadfast in Thy service, that, overcoming the snares of all our enemies, we may enjoy everlasting repose. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

(An indulgence of 40 days, once a day, plenary on usual conditions from first Vespers till sunset on the feast, May 5th, if said in a Dominican church, or before an altar or relic of the saint- Pope Pius VIII., October 2,1830)

Prayers of St. Pius V

I

Lord Jesus Christ, my crucified Savior, Son of the most blessed Virgin Mary! open Thine ear and listen to me, as Thou didst listen to Thy eternal Father on Mount Thabor.

I believe in God, etc.

II

Lord Jesus Christ, my crucified Savior, Son of the most blessed Virgin Mary! open Thine eyes and look down upon me, as Thou didst look down, from the tree of the cross, upon Thy sorrowing and afflicted Mother.

I believe in God, etc.

III

Lord Jesus Christ, my crucified Savior, Son of the most blessed Virgin Mary! open Thy Sacred lips and speak to me , as Thou didst speak to St. John, when Thou gavest him as a son to Thy beloved Mother.

I believe in God, etc.

IV

Lord Jesus Christ, my crucified Savior, Son of the most Blessed Virgin Mary! open Thine arms and embrace me, as Thou didst open them, on the tree of the cross, to embrace the whole human race.

I believe in God, etc.

V

Lord Jesus Christ, my crucified Savior, Son of the most blessed Virgin Mary! open Thy heart and accept mine, and graciously hear my prayer, if such be the pleasure of Thy most holy will.

I believe in God, etc.

( An indulgence of 60 days, every time, a plenary indulgence once a month, on any day, and under usual conditions, to all those who have said these prayers, with the Apostles' Creed, every day for a month, for the intention of the Pope- Pope Pius IX., May 24, 1859)

Prayers Revealed by St. Mary Magdalen

To St. Mechtilde, with promise of a special blessing.

I Give Thee thanks, O good Jesus, for the work of piety wrought on Thee by the Blessed Mary Magdalen, when she bathed Thy feet with her tears, wiped them with the hair of her head, kissed them, and anointed them with perfumes. Thou didst reward her by filling her heart and soul with so great love of Thee that, henceforth, she could love nothing but Thee. Vouchsafe, I beseech Thee, to grant me, through her merits, tears of true repentance, and to fill my heart with divine love. Amen.

Prayer of St. Thomas Aquinas After Mass

LORD, Father all-powerful, and ever-living God, I thank Thee, for even though I am a sinner, Thy unprofitable servant, not because of my worth, but in the kindness of Thy mercy, Thou hast fed me with the precious Body and Blood of Thy Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. I pray that this holy communion may not bring me condemnation and punishment but forgiveness and salvation. May it be a helmet of faith and a shield of good will. May it purify me from evil ways and put an end to my evil passions. May it bring me charity and patience, humility and obedience, and growth in power to do good. May it be my strong defense against all my enemies, visible and invisible, and the perfect calming of all my evil impulses, bodily and spiritual. May it unite me more closely to Thee, the one true God and lead me safely through death to everlasting happiness with Thee. And I pray that Thou willest lead me, a sinner to the banquet where Thou with Thy Son and Holy Spirit, art true and perfect light, total fulfillment, everlasting joy, gladness without end, and perfect happiness to Thy saints. Grant this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayer of  Saint Bonaventure

St. Bonaventure (1218-1274) was born in Tuscany and became a Franciscan. He is regarded as the greatest exponent of Mystical Theology in the Middle Ages and is known as the Seraphic Doctor

Pierce, O most Sweet Lord Jesus, my inmost soul with the most joyous and healthful wound of Thy love, with true, serene, and most holy apostolic charity, that my soul may ever languish and melt with love and longing for Thee, that it may yearn for Thee and faint for Thy courts, and long to be dissolved and to be with Thee.

Grant that my soul may hunger after Thee, the bread of angels, the refreshment of holy souls, our daily and supersubstantial bread, having all sweetness and savor and every delight of taste; let my heart ever hunger after and feed upon Thee, upon whom the angels desire to look, and may my inmost soul be filled with the sweetness of Thy savor; may it ever thirst after Thee, the fountain of life, the fountain of wisdom and knowledge, the fountain of eternal light, the torrent of pleasure, the richness of the house of God.

May it ever compass Thee, seek Thee, find Thee, run to Thee, attain Thee, meditate upon Thee, speak of Thee, and do all things to the praise and glory of Thy name, with humility and discretion, with love and delight, with ease and affection, and with perseverance unto the end; may Thou alone be ever my hope, my entire assurance, my riches, my delight, my pleasure, my joy, my rest and tranquility, my peace, my sweetness, my fragrance, my sweet savor, my food, my refreshment, my refuge, my help, my wisdom, my portion, my possession and my treasure, in whom may my mind and my heart be fixed and firmly rooted immovably henceforth and for ever. Amen.

Soul of Christ (Anima Christi)

Soul of Christ, sanctify me.
Body of Christ, save me.
Blood of Christ, inebriate me.
Water from the side of Christ, wash me.
Passion of Christ, strengthen me.
O good Jesus, hear me.
Within Thy wounds, hide me.
Separated from Thee let me never be.
From the malignant enemy, defend me.
At the hour of death, call me.
To come to Thee, bid me,
That I may praise Thee in the company
Of Thy Saints, for all eternity.

Amen.

Prayer of Self-Dedication to Jesus Christ

by St. Ignatius of Loyola (1491 - 1556), founder of the Jesuits.

Lord Jesus Christ, take all my freedom, my memory, my understanding, and my will. All that I have and cherish Thou hast given me. I surrender it all to be guided by Thy will. Thy grace and Thy love are wealth enough for me. Give me these Lord Jesus and I ask for nothing more. Amen.

Prayer Before a Crucifix

Behold, o good and most sweet Jesus, I fall upon my knees before Thee, and with most fervent desire beg and beseech Thee that Thou wouldst impress upon my heart a lively sense of faith, hope and charity, true repentance for my sins, and a firm resolve to make amends. And with deep affection and grief, I reflect upon Thy five wounds, having before my eyes that which Thy prophet David spoke about Thee, o good Jesus: "They have pierced my hands and feet, they have counted all my bones." Amen.

Universal Prayer

Written by Pope Clement XI (1700-1721).

Lord, I believe in Thee: but let me believe more strongly. I hope in Thee: but let me hope more securely. I love Thee: but let me love Thee more ardently. I sorrow, but deepen my sorrow for my sins.I adore Thee as my first beginning, I long for Thee as my last end, I praise Thee as my constant benefactor, I call on Thee as my loving protector. Guide me by Thy wisdom, hold me with Thy justice, comfort me with Thy mercy, protect me with Thy power. I offer Thee, Lord, my thoughts, my words, my actions, and my sufferings to be fixed on Thee, to be according to Thee, and to be endured for Thee. I want to do what Thou willeth, in the way Thou willeth for as long as Thou willeth, because Thou willeth. I pray, O Lord, enlighten my understanding, inflame my will, purify my heart, and sanctify my soul .May I weep for my former iniquities, repel future temptations, correct my faults, and cultivate suitable virtues. Grant me, O God, love of Thee, hatred of me, zeal for my neighbor, contempt the world. May I be eager to obey my superiors, be courteous to my inferiors, faithful to my friends, and to forgive my enemies. Help me to conquer sensuality with austerity, greed with generosity, anger with gentleness, apathy with fervor. Make me prudent in planning, steadfast in danger, patient in adversity, and humble in prosperity. O Lord, make me attentive in prayer, temperate in drink, diligent in my duties, and firm in purpose. May I take care to have an innocent interior, a modest exterior , exemplary speech, and a well-ordered life .May I be ever-watchful in guarding against my weaknesses, cherishing Thy grace, keeping Thy laws, and coming to salvation. May I learn from Thee the passing nature of this world, the grandness of heaven, the shortness of this life, and the life to come eternal. Grant that I may prepare for death, fear judgment, flee from Hell, and obtain paradise. Grant this though Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayer of St. John Chrysostom

Written by St. John Chrysostom (344-407), Bishop, Patriarch of Constantinople, and Doctor of the Church. He is known as Doctor Eucharisticus (Doctor of the Eucharist).

We give Thee thanks, O most merciful Lord and Redeemer of our souls, for this day Thou hast made us worthy by means of these immortal and heavenly mysteries. Direct our way; keep us in fear of Thee; guard our lives; and make our steps firm through the prayers and intercessions of the glorious and holy Mother of God and ever-Virgin Mary. Be exalted above the heavens, O God, and above all the earth, Thy glory, now and forever and ever. Amen.